“The speed of communication is wondrous to behold. It is also true that speed can multiply the distribution of information that we know to be untrue.”

–Edward R. Murrow, American journalist (and native Washingtonian), 1964

“The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential, command.”

–George Orwell, 1984

        Once again, ladies and gents, the editors of this fine publication have seen fit to provide me with this space to ruminate, ponder, and perhaps occasionally to squabble. I shall do my utmost to bring forth a product worthy of this space.

        Folks, Election Day 2018 has come and gone, and Democrats have taken control of the House of Representatives, while Republicans have extended their majority in the Senate.  Depending on your preferred media sources, Republicans has been unjustly robbed, or Democrats have scored a triumphant victory for freedom, democracy, and the American people.

Surely now our government will function as our founders intended, and our nation may move forward into a bright future. Alternatively, our government is obviously led by criminals and fools and will surely crumble before the next election.

        Your perception of our current moment in history almost certainly depends on your individual political beliefs, passions, and biases. (“Biases” typically has a negative connotation, but I do not intend to use it disparagingly – everyone has biases of some sort). In many ways, the very idea of “objective reality” itself is currently under assault.

Attention is a precious commodity, and many people – including hostile foreign agents – are paying large sums of money to capture your attention. According to the New York Times, eight of our federal and congressional intelligence agencies and national security groups have confirmed that Russia interfered in the 2016 election.

        If you think they won’t try again, then I’ve got a floating bridge I’d like to sell you.

        We can defeat them, ladies and gents. Nay, we must defeat them. Our nation’s future (YOUR future! Yes, reader, you! Pay attention, this is important!) depends upon it.

        Just as the only way to combat misinformation and lies is with credible information and facts, the only way to overcome apathy and cynicism is with action.

        Get involved! Learn about the issues. Contact your elected representatives. Even if you’re under 18 and cannot legally vote, they still work for you. Hold them accountable for their decisions, especially those that directly impact your life.

        If you find your representatives unresponsive, or you dislike their responses, work to replace them! Yes, I realize that we just had an election, but there will be another one soon. In the meantime, register to vote in the next election!

        Many people in our country’s history have stated, “Decisions are made by those who show up.” Folks, this could hardly be more accurate. A healthy democracy depends on informed citizens showing up to decide who best represents them.

        You have the power to think for yourself, and to show up  – to become a critical consumer of information and an informed, active citizen. Our democracy just might depend upon it.

        Use your brains to think critically, ladies and gents. But first, use your feet to get off my lawn.